Gastrointestinal Issues: Insights for Expats in South Africa - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

More Info

---

Understanding gastrointestinal issues, especially in the context of living abroad, can be quite challenging. Your mother's symptoms, which include a sensation of fullness or blockage in the stomach, difficulty eating, and potential acid-related discomfort, warrant a thorough evaluation.
From your description, it seems your mother is experiencing symptoms that could be related to several gastrointestinal conditions. The sensation of having something "stuck" in the throat or chest area, along with difficulty swallowing or eating, could indeed be indicative of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is often characterized by heartburn. This occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to irritation and discomfort.
Another possibility is functional dyspepsia, a condition that can cause similar symptoms of bloating, early satiety (feeling full after eating only a small amount), and discomfort in the upper abdomen. Stress and lifestyle changes, such as moving to a new country, can exacerbate these symptoms.
Given that your mother has had a health check-up in Taiwan and no significant gastrointestinal issues were identified, it might be worthwhile to consider that her symptoms could be multifactorial. Stress and anxiety can significantly impact gastrointestinal function, leading to symptoms that mimic organic disease.
It's also important to consider dietary factors. The transition to a new environment often comes with changes in diet, which can affect gastrointestinal health. Foods that are rich in fat, spicy, or acidic can aggravate symptoms of heartburn and dyspepsia.
In terms of management, it would be advisable for your mother to keep a food diary to identify any potential triggers for her symptoms. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding lying down immediately after eating, and reducing caffeine and alcohol intake may help alleviate her discomfort.
If her symptoms persist, it would be prudent for her to seek further evaluation from a gastroenterologist. Diagnostic tests such as an upper endoscopy (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) can help visualize the esophagus and stomach, allowing for the identification of any abnormalities such as inflammation, ulcers, or strictures.
In conclusion, while your mother's symptoms could be related to excess stomach acid or GERD, they may also stem from functional gastrointestinal disorders exacerbated by stress and dietary changes. A comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional, along with lifestyle and dietary modifications, can provide her with relief and improve her quality of life. It’s essential to advocate for her health and ensure she receives the appropriate care, especially as she navigates living in a new country.